Although the region is famous for its wineries, the Finger Lakes is home to many extraordinary breweries as well. There’s almost nothing better than drinking a cold beer after a long day of fun in the sun. We’ve narrowed the list down from an incredible selection of breweries near a few of our favorite Upstate New York lakes. From West to East, here are our favorite local Finger Lakes breweries.

Conesus Lake

Rising Storm Brewing Company is a small-scale microbrewery in Avon. With great service and a spacious grassy outdoor area, the brewery is a perfect place to sample delicious beers and relax. Rising Storm is especially touted for their crisp sour IPAs.

Founded by Benjamin and Steve, the “B” and “S” that make up the name, No BS Brew Company works to produce the highest quality craft beer. Beer lovers are divided over their favorite No BS beer, so you’ll have to grab a flight to decide for yourself. Their beer slushies are an iconic menu item and are perfect for summertime!

Canandaigua Lake

Other Half Brewing Company crafts local beers in their Brooklyn brewery. At the Finger Lakes location, they have an incredible outdoor seating area with weekend food trucks in the summer. Check their social media before your visit to see if they’ve released any special new brews. Other Half is well known for their delicious IPAs.

Notably, Young Lion Brewing Company is a woman-owned and managed brewery just north of Canandaigua Lake. While you might be tempted to pop in just for the stunning lake views, their spin on classic draughts will make you stay for hours. Don’t forget to order one of Young Lion’s signature oversized soft pretzels too!

Located only five minutes from Young Lion, Canandaigua Cobblestone Cottage is a scenic, romantic retreat near northern Canandaigua Lake. This historic inn built in 1837 has a room that was used as part of the Underground Railroad.

Keuka Lake

Named “Best Craft Brewery in New York State” in 2014, Keuka Brewing Company continues to produce unique, award-winning beers. Fans of the brewery rave about their lagers, but they also have a selection of inventive beers, such as Afterburner Habanero Ale and Ghost of Rita Gose. Soak in the views of Keuka Lake as you sample a flight of small-batch beers.

Located on farmland west of Keuka Lake, Steuben Brewing Company is a New York State Farm Brewery. The brewery hosts turns tastings into fun events, with live music, food trucks and lawn games to keep everyone entertained. While they have an awesome selection of beer and cider, the IPAs at Steuben are especially tasty.

Country Comforts Bed & Breakfast is located in an updated 1850s home two miles north of Keuka Lake. You’ll delight in waking up to a full country breakfast each morning after a relaxing, peaceful sleep in one of their charming rooms. 

Seneca Lake

Winner of Finger Lakes Brewery of the Year in 2021 at the New York International Beer Competition, Scale House Brewery is a local favorite for their great beer and equally good food. The brewery boasts a laid-back atmosphere with striking views of Seneca Lake. You have to try their delicious peanut butter stout!

Seneca Lake Brewing Company is a conventional British pub with a covered deck that overlooks Seneca Lake. They stand out from other breweries in the area by serving only traditional cask ales. Fans of the brewery love their unique “no cell phone” rule in the bar area.

Consisting of two renovated barns built in 1855, The South Glenora Tree Farm Bed & Breakfast is a tranquil place to stay between Seneca and Keuka Lakes. Kick back on a glider chair on the porch, and enjoy a homemade snack each evening. 

Cayuga Lake

Known for mastering New England-style IPAs, Aurora Brewing Company continues to produce tasty, small batches of beer. This nanobrewery sits on a hill overlooking Cayuga Lake and local vineyards. Aurora’s sour beers are a must-try as well!

Fleur De Lis Brew Works is a family-owned, small batch brewery in Seneca Falls. If the tables are full, bring your own chair to grab a spot on their gorgeous, green grounds. Try one of their stouts – we especially love their milk stout!

Located between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, Glass Magnolia Bed & Breakfast has access to gorgeous vineyards and lush rolling hills. Their highly-acclaimed chef serves gourmet breakfast each morning using locally sourced ingredients. Check out their packages too!

Skaneateles Lake

Prison City Pub and Brewery serves small batch beers with quirky names and huge flavor. They also have a tasty food menu with delicious appetizers! You have to try their award-winning Mass Riot IPA or Cool Hand Cuke sour beers. Actually, just order a flight or two, and try them all!

Finger Lakes on Tap has a unique, relaxing atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Don’t want to miss a brewery? With 60 taps flowing, they offer a variety of local craft beers made in the region. Talk to their knowledgeable bartenders to sample the perfect beers for you!

Tag us at @flbba on Instagram if you visit any of our favorite Finger Lakes breweries! Let the Finger Lakes Bed & Breakfast Association guide you to the perfect retreat for all your brewery adventures. While we have highlighted a few alluring inns above, FLBBA boasts a comprehensive list of independent inns across the Finger Lakes. The members of FLBBA abide by a list of high standards set by the organization, so you can confidently plan the perfect getaway today.